Ashley Du Preez has rejoined Stellenbosch FC on a permanent transfer from Kaizer Chiefs, bringing an end to the 29-year-old forward’s four-year spell at Naturena.
Stellenbosch FC confirmed the return of their former player as they prepare for the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season and their CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
Du Preez began his professional career with Stellenbosch FC in 2016 and is now back at the club where he first established himself. During his initial spell, he made 98 appearances in all competitions before moving to Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the 2022/23 Betway Premiership season.
The forward said a return to his hometown club had always been part of his long-term plans.
“I always knew that I would come back to Stellenbosch,” Du Preez said.
“It’s great to be back where I grew up and at the Club where it all started for me, and to be part of the Stellenbosch family again.”
Du Preez also spoke about the significance of once again representing the community in which he was raised.
“The community knows me well and has supported me since the start of my professional career, so being a local player and representing the Club again is a huge honour and privilege for me. It’s an amazing feeling to be back.”
His return gives Stellenbosch FC another experienced attacking option as the club looks to compete domestically and in continental competition. Du Preez, who was a local favourite during his first spell, will now aim to build the next stage of his career with the club where he started.
Stellenbosch FC CEO Rob Benadie said the club was delighted to bring the forward back to the team and the wider Stellenbosch community.
“Ashley has always held a special relationship with this Club and the Stellenbosch community, so we are incredibly excited to bring him home.”
Benadie added that Du Preez’s experience and established record in the Betway Premiership would benefit the squad in several areas.
“He is also an exceptional footballer who has consistently proven his quality in the Betway Premiership over a number of years, and we believe he will add enormous value to our squad both on and off the field.”
The move marks the conclusion of Du Preez’s time with Kaizer Chiefs and the start of his second spell with Stellenbosch FC. Having first represented Stellenbosch FC as a professional in 2016, he returns after making 98 appearances for the club before his move to Naturena.
His permanent transfer comes as Stellenbosch FC prepare for the demands of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign, alongside their CAF Confederation Cup commitments. The club will hope that Du Preez’s familiarity with the team and community enables him to make an immediate contribution on his return.
Stellenbosch FC’s announcement also comes amid further transfer interest involving Kaizer Chiefs, with a separate report suggesting that a forgotten Kaizer Chiefs midfielder could be moving to Cape Town.
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